Success Story: Annissa Summerrise, Owner of Blush and Build Construction

Annissa Summerise never expected she’d start her own construction business. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago surrounded by a family of builders and designers, she learned early how spaces shape people’s lives. But it wasn’t until years later that she realized she could carve out her own place in the industry.  

“I always felt that women could do construction differently because I sometimes see things that my family members don’t,” Annissa said. “I saw a gap, not in the quality of work, but in the project management, that I could fill. I’ve always been good at managing when there’s a lot on my plate. As a mom, I’m used to doing it anyway. So I thought, why not start a business and build a foundation that can be financially good for my family as well.”  

When she launched Blush and Build Construction in November 2025, Annissa brought a new perspective to the table. Through Elevate’s General Contractor Certification Program, she discovered the structure, confidence, and community she needed to turn that vision into a sustainable, scalable business.  

“I knew I had the drive, being who I am, but I needed support to really take my business to the next level,” Annissa said. “This program gives people access to knowledge, to resources, to opportunities that aren’t always easy for women and minorities to find, especially in construction. It’s not just a training class, it’s empowerment.” 

Throughout Elevate’s General Contractor Certification Program, students are guided through the essential building blocks of construction management, including project phases, planning concepts, scheduling fundamentals, cost awareness, safety expectations, and professional conduct on the jobsite. The course emphasizes real-world application, industry language, and scenario-based learning to help students connect classroom concepts to actual construction environments. 

Learners start with varying levels of experience, including those new to construction management and those already working in the industry who want to strengthen their skills and advance professionally. Each of the graduates walk away from the program with a broader understanding of how general contractors lead projects, make informed decisions, and contribute to successful, safe, and efficient construction outcomes. 

“I learned how to build a business based on excellence, understanding the finances and contracts, and just really learning how to position myself in this industry,” Annissa said. “I’m coming out of the program with more confidence, clarity, and a stronger foundation. The people I’ve met along the way, both the mentors and classmates, have helped me think more strategically about my business. I feel like I can now move with more intention instead of just figuring things out as I go.” 

For Annissa, meeting others in the industry was one of the most powerful parts of the program. She said getting to know her classmates, who were on similar paths in the industry, helped her feel less alone.  

“When there’s something I’m not very strong in, there’s always someone else in the class who’s strong in it who will bounce ideas with me,” she said. “I’ve learned that you essentially have to build a team for yourself, and that team can become like a family. That’s how you can really continue to grow in this industry. You can’t do it all on your own.” 

Before participating in the Contractor Training Program, Annissa was struggling with scaling her business. The program helped her strengthen her back-office and reframe the structure of her business so that she can take on more work in the future. 

“It’s helped me to think more strategically about my business. Before, I felt like I was just figuring things out as I went. Now, I have a plan and a foundation.”  

For Annissa, the next chapter involves taking on more varied construction projects and diving further into residential work. She also hopes to be an advocate for women in construction. 

“I want to take people’s dreams and build them out in their homes and basically be able to say I was a part of giving families something new in their homes and communities,” Annissa said. “I also want to show women that there’s a place for us in this industry.” 

Interested in joining a future cohort? Elevate is currently accepting applications online. Apply here.